I have encountered a lot of interesting things during my years making hospital visits. I have been mistaken for a Cardilogist, ER Physcian, Surgeon , somebody’s Uncle Fred, and a car mechanic (they wanted to thank me for fixing their car recently). I even had a lady ask me about a wart removal.
I have sat with families during major surgeries, prayed many prayers, seen many miracles and also despair. I have visited the hospital mornings, afternoons and late at night. I have been there in rain, sleet, snow and a tornado. I have assisted hospital staff with moving patients out into the hallway during weather emergencies.
I even once got in a ferocious fight at the hospital…with a malfunctioning hand sanitizer…I got sprayed with white foam from my head down to my waist…poof…I instantly became “Frosty the Snowman”! This spontaneous display caused a lot of laughter at the near by nurses station.
My main focus in visiting is to encourage people spiritually and cheer them up some. They often need something to smile about during a time of illness or surgery recovery. The Bible teaches us that “Happiness is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22).
There is enough sadness, pain, and suffering to go around but there seems to be a real shortage of happiness and joy these days. I am thankful that our joy and happiness isn’t limited to our circumstances and difficulties. It actually transcends all of that kind of stuff. Jesus said “In the world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world” (John 16: 33). The Bible also teaches us that God can be our source of joy in life…”The joy of The Lord is our strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10). May you and I spread our joy in The Lord today. It is contagious and is good medicine for us and others.